Swami Vivekananda: India's original youth icon

"Sisters and Brothers of America.... I thank you in the name of the mother of religions, and I thank you in the name of millions and millions of Hindu people of all classes and sects..."

Swami Vivekananda, philosopher and educator, captivated the world with his famous speech at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893.

Vivekananda, whose 150th birth anniversary is being celebrated on January 12, played an effective role in spreading Hindu philosophy in the west and helped restore a sense of pride amongst Hindus.

The key highlight in his Chicago speech lies in his opening remarks and his message of tolerance.

Vivekananda was different from the other speakers in the gathering. While other speakers spoke on their own faith, he stressed on the value of interfaith awareness. He received a standing ovation of more than three minutes from the audience.